The season is heading into the holiday tournament part of the schedule and a host of talented juniors will look to keep their stellar play going. Here’s a look at five 2021 prospects in Illinois whose stellar play has them rising up the board in the state…
BLAKE PETERS - EVANSTON - 6’3 - SG
Peters has become a relatively popular name when it comes to basketball fans in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Peters has had the opportunity to play in front of big crowds throughout his entire high school career due to his previous high profile teammates. Now, he has ditched the glasses and plays a more serious role in leading the Wildkits. Expect as the season goes on for him to continue showing that he is one of the best shooters in not only the state but the country. Peters is ranked #21 in the 2021 NY2LA Illinois TOP 25.
WALT MATTINGLY - DEERFIELD - 6’7 - SF
Mattingly has been very consistent for Deerfield to start his junior season. Walt is a very fun player to watch, he shoots the ball well and isn't afraid to handle it in transition. I expect him to start receiving bigger looks as the year goes on. You can't teach size and Mattingly definitely has that. Mattingly is ranked #22 in the 2021 NY2LA Illinois TOP 25.
LOUIS LESMOND - NOTRE DAME - 6’6 - SF
The young Frenchman has become a very nice player for the Dons. He already holds multiple HM D1 offers after a nice summer campaign, but I expect him to get a few more before the high school season is over. He has put on weight which has allowed him to be more efficient at the rim and Lesmond continues to be an assassin from beyond the arc. Lesmond is ranked #6 in the 2021 NY2LA Illinois TOP 25.
TREY BAKER - MUNDELEIN - 5’9 - PG
Baker has made an impact for the Mustangs right away. The junior was a varsity starter as a freshman at state power Stevenson. However, Baker went a different direction after his sophomore season and he hasn't disappointed. He does whatever it takes to be out on the floor. He's not afraid to take charges and he is knockdown from deep.
OLA AJIBOYE - VON STEUBEN - 6’8 - PF
Ajiboye went from a relatively unknown player to one of the biggest recruits in the state for the 2021 class after having a strong summer with Team RWA. Ajiboye is a long 6’8 that has a nice touch around the rim and shows the ability to be a shot blocker on the defensive end. I like Ajiboye moving forward, he will end up being a great get for a college down the line. Ajiboye is ranked #14 in the 2021 NY2LA Illinois TOP 25.